Smoking

Smoking Indoors

Smoking indoors significantly increases the chance of fire and exposes others to second-hand smoke. If you must smoke indoors, remember to put it out - right out and follow these safety tips:

• Smoke outside wherever possible - never smoke in bed.
• Avoid smoking when drowsy or under the influence of alcohol, drugs or medication.
• Never leave lit cigarettes, cigars, or pipes unattended - they can easily tip over and start a fire.
• Use a proper ashtray that won’t tip over and is made of non-combustible material.
• Ensure all smoking materials are fully extinguished before disposal.
• Never tap ash or empty ashtrays into wastepaper baskets or plastic bins.
• Never flick cigarettes out of windows or off balconies.
• Cigars and pipes burn longer - make sure they’re fully extinguished and disposed of safely.
• Shisha involves hot coals - use heat-resistant surfaces and never leave burning materials unattended.
• Keep lighters, matches and smoking materials out of the reach of children.

Smoking Outdoors

Smoking outdoors is generally safer than indoors, but it still poses fire risks, especially near flammable materials. To reduce the risk:

• Smoke away from decking and other combustible surfaces.
• Clear your outdoor smoking area of garden waste, dry vegetation or other flammable materials.
• Always use solid, stable ashtrays -ideally with a lid and a little water in the bottom – to prevent it being tipped over.
• Make sure all smoking materials are fully extinguished before disposal.
• Take care around decking – cigarettes or embers can fall between the boards and start a hidden fire that spreads quickly.

Vaping (E-Cigarettes) 

Vaping is often seen as a safer alternative to smoking, but it is not risk-free. While it avoids many of the harmful chemicals found in tobacco smoke, vaping still carries health and fire risks, especially when devices are misused or poorly maintained.

Fire risks from vaping are mainly linked to battery safety, charging practices, and improper disposal. Follow these simple tips to help keep you and others safe:

Charging and Battery Safety

• Only use the charger provided with your device or one recommended by the manufacturer.
• Don’t be tempted to buy cheap, unbranded or counterfeit chargers, they may lack essential safety features.
• Never leave e-cigarettes charging unattended, especially overnight or while you’re out of the house.
• Never leave devices on charge for long periods and avoid charging near flammable materials or on soft furnishings, never charge under your pillow.
• Unplug once fully charged to prevent overheating or battery damage.
• Do not use counterfeit chargers or batteries, as they may lack safety features and increase the risk of explosion.

Safe Storage and Handling

• Keep e-cigarettes and spare batteries away from direct sunlight and heat sources.
• Store batteries in a protective case to prevent contact with metal objects like keys or coins, which can cause short circuits.
• Avoid using damaged devices or batteries - replace them immediately if you notice swelling, leaking or overheating.
• Never mix components from different e-cigarette brands or models.
• Never modify or adapt vaping devices or accessories.
• Never use e-cigarettes near medical oxygen, airflow mattresses, or other medical equipment.

Safe Disposal

• Do not dispose of vapes or batteries in household waste
• Dispose of used batteries and devices responsibly. You can: Find local recycling points here.
• Visit your local council’s website for guidance on safe disposal and recycling options.